External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said Indian officials from the Indian Consulate in Jeddah have been on the ground and have set up a 24X7 helpline to provide information and assistance.

They have been monitoring the situation through the night, Swarup said. "Regrettably we have been informed that 2 Indians have been killed in the unfortunate accident," he stated.

"We have received reports that 15 Indians have been injured and are being assisted in various hospitals. These include 11 from the Haj Committee of India and 4 from Private Tour Operators," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson said.

Over 100 people died when a massive construction crane crashed into Mecca's Grand Mosque yesterday with scores more injured, days before the annual haj pilgrimage. A part of the massive crane collapsed as a result of strong winds and heavy rains, media reports cited.